In Washington, some politicians want to use government money to help families send their children to private and religious schools. They want to use up to $5 billion each year for this.

A new plan would let families in the country choose a different school for their children instead of the local public school. Almost all families could get this help, but not very rich families.

People who like private schools want to help families have more options if their kids go to schools that are not good.

When parents can choose the best school for their child, it helps them have a better future, said Senator Bill Cassidy.

People who give money or shares in a company will pay less tax.

Critics said the plan was bad because it would help rich people and hurt public schools where most students go. They said it was a way for smart investors to avoid paying taxes by pretending to give money.

This is happening while the government under Trump makes the Education Department smaller and gives less money to public schools. They are giving $1 billion less for help with mental health and less money for training teachers.

"This is a big problem," said Sasha Pudelski. She also said that states with voucher programs often help families who were already paying for private school. She added, "This makes the problem of wasting money and cheating in voucher programs even bigger."

More states, like Texas, are giving money to help students go to private schools. People who like public schools worry this will mean fewer students and less money for public schools. This leaves less help for families who choose public schools.